If a Gulf country is looking to position itself as a summer destination, it’s Saudi Arabia. While the rest of the region is swept up in soaring temperatures, this expansive country offers some relief thanks to its sprawling and diverse landscape, which stretches from the Red Sea – across the water from Egypt – to the borders of Bahrain, Qatar and Abu Dhabi on the Arabian Gulf. Capitalising on the bounty of opportunities the Kingdom delivers for summer escapes and weekend breaks, new luxury travel company Roam has unveiled its latest summer offerings for curated weekend experiences across the Kingdom.
The three new experiences showcase the very best of the Kingdom and are set to encourage domestic and international tourism this season with packages based in areas with cooler climates. All packages are fully customisable and include guided travel, access to concierge services, local guides, accommodation and private transfers, also making them perfect for a debut trip to Saudi.
Roam the Red Sea – Duration: 3 days
The beautiful Red Sea is the idyllic summer destination, and Roam’s Red Sea escape invites travellers aboard a crewed private yacht for three days of natural aquatic beauty, adventure, and relaxation. Guests can explore the fabled sea’s crystalline waters and dive into colourful and thriving coral reefs abundant with marine life and mysterious shipwrecks. The weekend includes full accommodation aboard a Pershing 88-foot nine-berth yacht, promising an intimate, personalised and luxurious weekend escape.
Weekend itinerary
The three-day escape begins with an afternoon of getting to know the luxury vessel and settling in, with the chance to enjoy snorkelling as the sun sets. Day two starts with a visit to the remote sandy island of Al Lith, where guests can visit spots like the renowned Shoiba beach and dive into a fascinating shipwreck and Shib Habil – a hotspot for whale sharks. Day three offers the chance to get face-to-face with marine life with shark cave diving or experience the waters of the Red Sea in a seabreacher with top speeds of 80mph.
POA, available year-round, experiencesbyroam.com
Roam Abha – Duration: 3 days
The city of Abha – the scenic capital of the Asir Province – sits in the southwest of Saudi Arabia near the Red Sea. Elevated at 2,200 metres above sea level, it’s one of the coolest spots in the Kingdom, making it the perfect escape from the scorching summer engulfing the Gulf region. With a milder climate, travellers can embrace nature and get outdoors, enjoying the stunning natural and rugged landscapes peppered with cultural and historical sites.
Weekend itinerary
After journeying to the mountainous landscapes of the Asir Province and checking into a stylish modern apartment at Citadines Abha, guests can start their Roam Saudi Arabia weekend by enjoying the sunset from Abha High City before heading to the famous Art Street for a lively night, with the area to around 10 art galleries, theatres and cafés. Day two begins with a trip to the Soudah Mountain before immersion into the ancient tribal culture at the historical village of Rijal Alma. The weekend comes to an end with a visit to the Fatima Museum to see Al-Qatt Aseeri women’s abstract art, recognised as part of the UNESCO Intangible Heritage List.
POA, available spring, summer and autumn; experiencesbyroam.com
Roam Taif – Duration: 3 days
Characterised by its cooler climate, the city of Taif sits on the slopes of the majestic Hijaz Mountains in Mecca Province. The city is a hub for culture and cuisine and has breathtaking natural landscapes, able to attract visitors to enjoy its scenic beauty year-round thanks to a steady climate – making it the perfect Saudi destination for a summer escape. The city is known for its grand white-walled Shubra Palace, which now houses the Taif Regional Museum with artefacts from the Islamic and pre-Islamic periods. Travellers can also explore the region’s fragrant rose farms and many hiking trails.
Weekend itinerary
Setting the tone for the weekend and introducing guests to the region’s wonders, day one begins with checking into the five-star La Reve hotel in Taif’s financial district, known for its design, spa and rooftop restaurant with panoramic city views. After taking in the magical Al Hada sunset, travellers can head out to explore the charming streets of Taif Al Balad and discover the vibrant night markets and the city’s unique regional cuisine. Stargazing amidst the mountains is also on the plans, with a professional photographer in tow to capture memories. Day two begins with a trip to a local farm to try the region’s renowned pomegranates, peaches, strawberries, cheese and honey. The afternoon encompasses a guided hike through picturesque trails to embrace the region’s natural beauty. Day three is for cultural immersion and includes a visit to Sharif Museum and an encounter with Safwan, a world record-holding key maker keeping the ancient craft alive. Other activities include hikes and chances to sample the regional cuisine.
POA, available year-round; experiencesbyroam.com
To enquire about Roam’s Saudi Arabia weekend packages and book your spot, visit experiencesbyroam.com
